Merauke — A total of 164 children from various districts in Merauke Regency, South Papua Province, participated in the Papua Football Academy (PFA) 2025 selection which took place at the Musamus Merauke University Field, from June 6 to 8, 2025. From the number of participants, around 90 percent are Papuan Native (OAP) children who have a great passion to develop their football talents to the professional level.
Papua Football Academy (PFA) is a program for the search and development of young talents in the field of football, which is specifically intended for Papuan children who have potential and passion in football. Children who are declared to have passed the selection will later undergo intensive education and training at the Papua Football Academy headquarters, which is located in Mimika Sport Complex, Mimika Regency.
The Secretary of the Merauke Regency Papua Football Academy Committee, Beatrix Kahol, said that the PFA 2025 selection in Merauke is the fourth time since this program was rolled out, and this year was again greeted with high enthusiasm from children and parents.
“Every year his animo is amazing. Children come from various villages, with great enthusiasm and hope to join Papua Football Academy. This shows that the potential of football in South Papua is very big,” explained Beatrix.
Meanwhile, the Head Coach of the Selection of the Papua Football Academy Merauke Regency, Isak Wanggai, emphasized that the selection process is carried out objectively, transparently, and professionally, based on indicators that measure the technical ability, mentality, and development potential of each participant.
“We want to make sure that every child has the same opportunity. This selection not only assesses the basic technique of playing ball, but also the character and discipline of the prospective players. We see the future of Papua through their little feet,” said Isak, who is also a former national team player.
The three-day selection process includes basic technical skills tests, team coordination, and competition tests. The participants were also given motivation and briefing from the coaches and committee.
Through Papua Football Academy, it is hoped that young talents from Papua can develop their sports skills to the maximum, while still getting a balanced formal education. This program is an important part of encouraging the development of Papuan human resources through sports, especially football, which has become the identity and pride of the Papuan people.
